Breaking News: Four Key Houston Astros Players Announce Departure After Wild Card Elimination
The Houston Astros managed to rally from a rough start to the 2025 season, not only making it to the MLB postseason but also securing the AL West title as the No. 3 seed in the American League. However, their postseason journey was short-lived, as they were eliminated in two straight games by the surging Detroit Tigers in the Wild Card series.
With the Tigers now moving on to face the Cleveland Guardians in the ALDS, the Astros will be watching from home. For several key players, it might also be the end of their time in Houston. The organization faces a pivotal offseason, with several big-name free agents likely playing their last game for the team. Here are four Astros players expected to depart before the 2025 season:
1. RP Caleb Ferguson
Ferguson, who was acquired at the trade deadline, may have been a short-term rental for the Astros. While his performance improved from his time with the Yankees, Ferguson’s 3.86 ERA over 21 innings for Houston wasn’t enough to secure his place in the bullpen for next season. As the Astros look to strengthen their roster, Ferguson’s erratic performances make it likely he won’t return.
2. OF Jason Heyward
After being designated for assignment by the Dodgers, Jason Heyward was picked up by Houston to provide outfield depth. While he helped the Astros clinch the AL West with his .756 OPS over 24 games, his brief and underwhelming postseason performance — including two strikeouts in three plate appearances — indicates that Heyward will likely be seeking a new team for 2025.
3. SP Justin Verlander
Justin Verlander’s return to Houston after a short stint with the Mets was supposed to bolster their World Series hopes, but injuries and a lack of form plagued his season. With a 5.48 ERA over just 17 starts, Verlander’s struggles led to his exclusion from the Wild Card roster, signaling that his time with the Astros may have come to an end. At 41, his future in baseball remains uncertain.
4. 3B Alex Bregman
The most painful departure could be Alex Bregman, a cornerstone of the Astros’ success in recent years. After Jose Altuve received a contract extension, it became clear the Astros couldn’t afford both stars. Despite a slightly down year with a .768 OPS, Bregman still hit 26 home runs and is set to be one of the top free agents this offseason. With many suitors likely to offer a hefty contract, it’s expected that Bregman will be playing for another team come Opening Day 2025.
These departures mark a significant shift for the Astros as they prepare for the future. Fans will be watching closely as Houston navigates these offseason changes, aiming to rebuild for another shot at postseason glory.
